Top 7 Mental Health Books - That Could Change Your Life

This article is from our print magazine issued July 1st 2022. To order a copy of the magazine please do so here.

Think of the way you feel on a warm, summer day spent with friends or family. The sun is shining, the vibes are good, and you’re happy and content.

Warm summer weather generally makes it easier for people to feel happier overall. Similarly, it’s easier to feel down when the weather starts getting colder. This phenomenon is called seasonal depression. The full name is actually Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD. Aside from having a very apt name, SAD is quite common, and usually strikes in the fall and winter months. However, there are a few things you can do if you feel it coming on. Staying active, talking to friends and family, and doing things to distract yourself are all great ways to combat SAD. One popular distraction activity is to read. Although reading in general is a good way to distract yourself, reading mental health books could help as well. Below are the top 7 mental health books that we suggest. These could not only improve your mental health in the fall and winter, but also improve the overall quality of your life.

1. Winter Blues: Everything You Need to Know to Beat Seasonal Affective Disorder by Dr. Norman E. Rosenthal, MD

The title basically speaks for itself! Psychiatrist Dr. Rosenthal was part of the team that first identified Seasonal Affective Disorder. Dr. Rosenthal has since done copious research on how to treat it. His book teaches his readers tips on how to stay happier all year long! 2. Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottleib

This book is a first-hand tale of when Lori Gottlieb, a therapist, had to seek therapy herself. Lori’s book is not only humorous, but also provides insight into depression, therapy and why everyone needs someone to talk to sometimes. 3. You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life by Jen Sincero

Although this motivational book was written in 2013, everything author Jen Sincero says remains true today. This book is filled with advice, first-hand accounts from Jen, and tips on how to tackle anxiety and self-doubt. The way it’s written will make you think you’re talking to a best friend! 4. Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Finding Peace in a Frantic World by Mark Williams

Practicing mindfulness is one great way to relieve every-day stress and anxiety. Easier said than done, right? However, this book intends to make it easier. It walks you through how to practice mindfulness every day and eliminate stress. Based on Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, this book is also intended to boost your overall happiness level. 5. Hope and Help for Your Nerves: End Anxiety Now by Dr. Claire Weekes

If you struggle with anxiety or intrusive thoughts, this book is for you. Filled with step-by-step guidance on how to curb your anxious thoughts, this book also uses the author’s own experience to further assist its readers.

6. This is Depression by Dr. Diane McIntosh

Written by psychiatrist Dr. Diane McIntosh, this book discusses common causes for depression and what readers can do to alleviate it. It also goes over possible treatments, backed up by real stories and examples. This book strives to help its readers understand depression. Hopefully once readers understand it, it will be easier to combat.

7. The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk M.D.

This #1 New York Times bestseller helps readers navigate trauma. It’s written by researcher Bessel van der Kolk M.D., one of the world’s leading trauma experts. No matter what you’ve been through, this book strives to help you begin the healing process. Almost everyone has gone through depression and/or anxiety at some point in their lives. Both depression and anxiety come in many different forms, and look different in different people. Even though many people have been afflicted with depression in all its forms, it can still be difficult to discuss with others. We hope that reading these books is a good first step to working through them. Grow, live, and change the world. Keep growing and inspiring.

One more book you have to check out on personal growth and mental health is: Get It Together.....Now